The Trash Free Waters Art and Slogan Competition (EPA-R4-GM-2024-TFWASC) is a funding opportunity by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) designed to encourage the reduction of plastic and trash in freshwater and marine environments in the Gulf of Mexico. This initiative aims to engage high school students across the five Gulf states—Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas—in creating art and slogans that raise public awareness about the impact of litter on water quality. The competition seeks to promote long-term environmental stewardship and inspire behavioral changes through creative expressions, with a focus on preventing litter from reaching waterways and educating the public on the importance of clean water.

One recipient from each of the five Gulf states will be selected for a cooperative agreement. Recipients will be responsible for managing a statewide art and slogan competition aimed at high school students. This includes developing a judging panel, organizing community cleanups, and planning outreach activities to showcase the winning artwork and slogans. Outreach will involve various platforms such as billboards, public service announcements, social media, and printed displays. Additionally, the winning school will receive up to 10 water refill stations as part of the award to further promote environmental sustainability.

The EPA will provide a total of approximately $3 million, with up to $600,000 available per project. Projects can last for up to three years. Eligible applicants include governmental entities, state agencies, interstate agencies, Indian tribes, local governments, institutions of higher learning, and nonprofit organizations. Schools and school districts can also apply. The projects must take place within the Gulf of Mexico watershed in one of the five Gulf states. For-profit organizations are not eligible.

The application process requires submission through Grants.gov by November 22, 2024. The application must include a project narrative, a detailed budget, and supporting documents such as letters of support. Applicants must demonstrate how their project will meet EPA's goals under the Clean Water Act, including how it will advance EPA’s strategic goal of protecting and restoring waterbodies and watersheds.

Evaluation criteria include the quality of the project design, anticipated environmental results, the effectiveness of outreach and communication plans, and partnerships with other organizations. Applicants are encouraged to work with partners such as local governments and community groups to increase the project’s impact. The ability to track and measure the amount of trash prevented from entering waterways, as well as the effectiveness of the public education efforts, will be key factors in the selection process.

The program aligns with EPA’s broader efforts to protect the Gulf of Mexico by reducing pollution and encouraging community involvement. Successful applicants will be expected to submit progress reports and participate in evaluations to ensure the project meets its goals.